Manipur recorded around 6,000 forest fire incidents last year: Official

Manipur recorded around 6,000 forest fire incidents last year, with forest fires emerging as a major factor contributing to the loss of forest cover in the state, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (PCCF) Anurag Bajpai said on October 9.

Briefing the media at the Forest Department headquarters in Imphal, Bajpai said the department had stepped up preventive measures ahead of the dry season, when forest fires, illegal tree felling and other activities pose a threat to forest resources.

Citing the Forest Survey of India (FSI), Bajpai said forests account for a substantial part of Manipur's geographical area. He said around 78 per cent of the state's total geographical area was classified as forest area, while forest cover accounted for approximately 74 per cent.

However, the FSI's 2024 report recorded a reduction of 50 square kilometres in forest cover in Manipur, he said.

Bajpai identified Churachandpur and Kangpokpi as the districts that recorded the highest loss of forest cover. He cited forest fires, shifting cultivation and developmental projects among the major factors contributing to the decline.

600 hectares diverted for development projects

The PCCF said around 600 hectares of land were diverted for developmental projects last year. The Forest Department has been undertaking plantation activities to mitigate the environmental impact and compensate for the loss of forest cover, he added.

Bajpai expressed hope that the state's forest cover could show improvement in the next assessment report, expected to be published in 2026.

He said the department was focusing on both plantation and forest protection, stressing that restoration efforts would need to be accompanied by measures to prevent further damage.

“Efforts from the department alone are not enough. Understanding and cooperation from local communities are also essential to prevent damage and destruction of forests,” he said.

SOP issued to prevent forest fires

With the dry season beginning in October, the department has issued a standard operating procedure (SOP) to prevent and control forest fires, Bajpai said.

He stressed the need for coordination among local communities, volunteers and other stakeholders to prevent fires and respond quickly when incidents occur.

The department is also strengthening its preparedness to address other forest-related threats during the dry season, including illegal tree felling, wildlife offences and the smuggling of forest products.

Bajpai said sustained plantation, effective protection measures and public participation would be crucial to reversing the decline in forest cover and safeguarding Manipur's forest resources.